NorthGate Constructors open new FM 1709/Northwest Highway Bridge

The new FM 1709/Northwest Highway Bridge opened this weekend offering improvement to an area that has been confusing for some drivers.

NorthGate Constructors opened six lanes on the bridge, allowing two-way traffic. The bridge is one of four improved intersection bridges over State Highway 114 to open on the DFW Connector project. Once it is opened to full capacity later this year, it will be nine lanes wide with a Texas U-turn on the east side.

“There were no issues that we know of during the bridge opening this weekend. That area, for a long time, has been rather confusing,” said Bob Price, public works director for Southlake. “I think the realignment of the bridges and connecting FM 1709 to Northwest Highway will be a huge improvement in the long run.”

After opening the FM 1709/Northwest Highway Bridge, crews immediately began demolishing the two former bridges. Demolition began Sunday and is scheduled to continue demolition the weekends of Aug. 10, 17 and 24, starting Friday at 8 p.m. and continuing until the following Monday at 6 a.m. To complete the demolition, NorthGate will close east and westbound SH 114 main lanes under FM 1709 during these times; traffic will be detoured to the east and westbound SH 114 frontage roads.

“I think this new bridge will still provide great access for the businesses located in proximity to the bridge,” Price said. “The lights are still operating on a fixed time basis, and they still don’t have all the lanes open, but I think it’s great progress.”

This year, the DFW Connector project will also open a bridge on northbound International Parkway north of DFW Airport and a bridge southbound State Highway 121 to westbound SH 114. The $1.02 billion DFW Connector project is currently one year ahead of schedule, with a completion date of mid-summer 2013. The project is being built under a comprehensive development agreement (CDA) between the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) and NorthGate Constructors.

“They’re making unbelievable progress with the DFW Connector Project. I think this is one more proof of how well the project is going,” Price said. “The original plan for the FM 1709/Northwest Highway Bridge was to be in construction until the end of year, but they finished well ahead of schedule. The drought situation has actually worked in favor of the construction because they haven’t been delayed by the weather. Progress on the project will continue to be seen.”

For information about the DFW Connector project, including all current and upcoming lane closures visit www.dfwconnector.com or call the toll-free hotline at 877-411-4212.

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